Donizetti: Anna Bolena - CD

ENGLISH

<br><br>It was with this opera, premiered in Milan in 1830, that Donizetti’s reputation as one of the leading opera<br /> composers of Europe was cemented. The premiere was quickly followed by performances in London, Paris, and in 1839, in New Orleans. Finally, Donizetti had a good libretto, though one that doesn’t let the facts of the real life of Anne Boleyn get in the way of the story!<br /> <br /> This recording which dates from 1973 using the uncut version of the opera has been at the top of the critics’<br /> list of recommended versions since its release. The cast is very strong, and the supporting roles each have<br /> big-name singers. But the real star of this recording is Beverly Sills, closely followed by Shirley Verrett.<br /> <br /> Other information:<br /> - "Sills puts heart and soul into the drama of what is, after all, a very strenuous role … Shirley Verrett is a superb Giovanna" (Jane Seymour, Gramophone).<br /> - The booklet contains an introduction to the opera, and a comprehensive synopsis of the plot.<br /> - The libretto is downloadable by clicking on 'Download booklet' below the cover.